Lobbyists
Overview
Introduction
A lobbyist works to influence legislation on the federal, state, or local level on behalf of clients. Nonprofit organizations, labor unions, trade associations, corporations, and other groups and individuals use lobbyists to voice concerns and opinions to government representatives. Lobbyists use their knowledge of the legislative process and their government contacts to represent their clients' interests. Though most lobbyists are based in Washington, D.C., many work throughout the country representing client issues in city and sta...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Because of the wide range of salaries earned by lobbyists, it is difficult to compile an accurate survey. According to Salary.com, in January 2020 lobbyists earned median annual salaries of $113,126. The lowest 10 percent earned $71,223 or less, while the highest 10 percent earned $194,892 or more. Most salaries ranged between $91,192 and $155,925.
Like lawyers, lobbyists are considered ...
Work Environment
Lobbyists spend much of their time communicating with the people who affect legislation—principally the legislators and officials of federal and state governments. This communication takes place in person, by telephone, by e-mail, and by memoranda. Most of a lobbyist's time is spent gathering information, writing reports, creating publicity, and staying in touch with clients. They respond to th...
Outlook
The number of special interest groups in the United States continues to grow, and as long as they continue to plead their causes before state and federal governments, lobbyists will be needed. However, lobbying cutbacks often occur in corporations. Because lobbying doesn't directly earn a profit for a business, the government relations department is often the first in a company to receive budge...
